Court records reveal killing of Sacramento artist happened close to his disappearance
Court records shed some light on the final days of a Sacramento man who had been reported missing around Christmas. Artist Somboun Sayasane died on or around December 26, 2024, court records reveal. That was the same day his family reported him missing from his south Sacramento home.The Laotian refugee and lifelong painter was known for his book depicting Golden Gate Park through his captivating paintings. He also previously worked in special education.The Sacramento County Sheriff's Office initially declared Sayasane as an "at-risk missing person" due to his age and severe health issues.His body was discovered last week in the woods near Toll Road in Placerville. Authorities have not disclosed the cause of death but have charged Sayasane's roommate, Benjamin Dougherty, with murder.Dougherty was arrested last week in Petaluma.In a further twist, Benjamin's father, Robert Dougherty, was also arrested for allegedly helping to dispose of Sayasane's body, a crime court records indicate happened on or around New Year’s Eve.Both suspects are being held without bail. While investigators have yet to establish a motive, Robert Dougherty faces a judge on Wednesday. See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel
